Robert Fitzgerald's translation of the Iliad captures the epic's grandeur with a style that balances poetic elegance and narrative clarity. His choice of words often amplifies the intensity of the emotions and actions in Homer’s tale. For instance, in the introductory lines of Book 1, Fitzgerald uses vivid imagery like "crowded brave souls into the undergloom," which effectively evokes the dire consequences of Achilles' wrath. Additionally, his portrayal of Athena's encouragement to Diomedes in Book 5 reflects an intense and persuasive tone: "Whip your team toward Ares, hit him." This illustrates not only Athena's direct influence but also Fitzgerald's knack for highlighting the urgency and momentum within the narrative. Anthony Verity's translation, on the other hand, emphasizes a more straightforward and accessible approach while maintaining the epic's poetic essence. Verity's introduction to Book 1 begins with the command to "SING, goddess," setting a direct appeal to the Muses and framing the narrative as a song. His interpretation of the same scene with Diomedes in Book 5 uses precise language that mirrors Athena’s logical reassurance: "you should not on this account be afraid of Ares or any other of the immortals." Verity opts for a clear and detailed depiction of the events, ensuring that readers receive a thorough understanding of the epic's complex dynamics and divine interventions. Both translations capture the core themes of heroism and fate, yet they do so through different stylistic lenses that cater to varied reader preferences.
Anger be now your song, immortal one,
Akhilleus' anger, doomed and ruinous,
that caused the Akhaians loss on bitter loss
and crowded brave souls into the undergloom,
leaving so many dead men—carrion
for dogs and birds; and the will of Zeus was done.
SING, goddess, the anger of Achilles, Peleus' son,
the accursed anger which brought the Achaeans countless
agonies and hurled many mighty shades of heroes into Hades,
causing them to become the prey of dogs and
all kinds of birds; and the plan of Zeus was fulfilled.
Sing from the time the two men were first divided in strife—
Atreus' son, lord of men, and glorious Achilles.